Use of Extra-Narrow-Diameter Implants in Reduced Alveolar Ridge: A Case Report

Abstract

Background: Narrow-diameter implants (3.0 - 3.5 mm range) have been introduced for the replacement of teeth with insufficient bone structure and/or limited mesiodistal or interimplant spaces, and appear to offer clinical results similar to those obtained with implants of greater diameter. Studies using extra-narrow-diameter implants (2.8 mm) are scarce. Case Presentation: A 59-year-old male patient received two extra-narrow-diameter implants, 2.8 × 11 mm in the region between elements 11 and 14. Together, two 3.5 × 8.5 mm SYSTHEX® platform 4.1 implants were installed in the region of elements 15 and 16 to provide greater stability in the occlusion. Of four previous implants on the maxillary left side, one in the region between the elements 23 and 24 that was located in a very apical position and vestibularized was removed. The provisional was already installed on the elements 11, 21, and 22 with the metal cores already prepared and with the Globteck® implants in the region of the elements 23, 24, and 27. The functional and esthetic results were satisfactory. Conclusions: Insertion of extra-narrow-diameter implants of 2.8 mm in the maxillary anterior region is a reliable option in a patient with absence of elements 12 and 13, restoring masticatory function and aesthetics in the upper arch.